Thirst Aid Kit: Your Guide to Hydration
With summer right around the corner, and temperatures warming up, now is the perfect time to think about hydration!
Why is hydration important?
The human body is 60% water. Proper hydration supports health in a variety of ways:
- lubricates joints
- oxygenates the body
- boosts skin health
- protects the brain
- regulates body temperature
- maintains blood pressure
- optimizes kidney function
- aids digestion and nutrient absorption
- removes toxins and waste from body
How much hydration do I need?
- Males: 15 cups per day (12 cups from beverages, the rest from food)
- Females: 11 cups per day (9 cups from beverages, the rest from food)
Beverage options include:
- Water (try to get most of your hydration from water)
- Milk (or milk alternatives)
- Juice (preferably 100% fruit juice)
- Tea & coffee (preferably unsweetened)
Good food sources of hydration include fruits, vegetables, yogurt, cottage cheese, broths, and soups.
How can I get more hydration?
- Grab a bottle (or two, or three!). Find a water bottle you like and keep one nearby at all times. Consider style, size, material, and portability.
- Jazz it up! Don't like plain water? You can flavor water with fruit, herbs, juice, and tea bags (check out the recipe below for infused water). Unsweetened or lightly sweetened sparkling water can be a fun option too!
- Attach it to other activities. Drink when you get out of bed, while waiting for the coffee to brew, before meals or bathroom breaks, etc.
- Set alarms. Program calendar reminders during the day to help you remember and build the habit.
- Keep track. Try an app or smart water bottle to help you keep track of your progress!
